Recreational Drug Policy in Disarray Says ACT MP

Monday 28 April 2014

The proposal to pass amending legislation under urgency to amend the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013 a law that was passed less than nine months ago proves the Government’s policy around recreational drugs is in disarray said John Banks, ACT MP for Epsom.

“I was the sole MP to oppose this flawed legislation. Now there is a stampede of MPs opposing it, said Mr Banks.

“I opposed it because I deeply believe that there is no need to use animals to establish whether these recreational drugs are toxic or cause cancer or genetic mutation.

“Using evidence from animal testing on beagle puppies or any other animal to establish the safety of non-therapeutic ‘fun drugs’ is morally objectionable.

“This concern remains.

“I am interested in seeing an amendment to this law that outlaws the use of evidence, gained from animal testing, to establish the safety of recreational drugs.

“I am advised that animal testing evidence is not needed and is not necessary to be reasonably certain about safety.

“Any residual safety issues for recreational drugs should be handled by informed consumer consent and public health warnings and any public health consequences funded by excise taxes.

“I believe using any drug recreationally is, in most cases bad for health and unwise.

“However if New Zealanders want to use these new recreational drugs they should assume more of the responsibility for this behaviour without the use of animal testing by those who seek to sell these products,” said Mr Banks.

ENDS

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